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Key Takeaways
- Beryllium Limited reported an armed robbery in Liguanea where thieves stole cash, but no guards were injured.
- The company prioritizes the safety of its crew and cooperates with the Jamaica Constabulary Force during the investigation.
- Law enforcement recovered the stolen security vehicle due to advanced tracking technology and swift action.
- In a separate incident, a police constable faces homicide charges related to a shooting at a party in Ewarton.
- Eyewitness testimony contradicts the constable’s self-defense claim, leading to charges by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Beryllium Limited, a dedicated security company, has issued a statement regarding an unfortunate armed robbery that took place on Monday night in Liguanea, St. Andrew. The good news is that all of our guards are safe, but the thieves stole some cash during the incident.
In the statement released on Tuesday, Beryllium highlighted that the well-being of our crew members is our top priority. We are actively partnering with the Jamaica Constabulary Force as they conduct their investigation to ensure that justice is serve.
The robbery, which occurred around 7:50 p.m. at a commercial plaza on Old Hope Road, involved a team of three armed Beryllium guards. These guards were on their way for a cash pickup in an unmarked vehicle. At that moment, they were confronted by a group of armed individuals, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire. Thankfully, we are relieved to report that there were no injuries.
The assailants took the security vehicle. However, thanks to our advanced tracking technology and the swift response by law enforcement. They recovered the vehicle about a mile away on Blue Castle Drive.
We are unable to share further details due to the sensitive nature of the incident and the ongoing investigation. However, we are committed to cooperating fully with authorities. Beryllium will provide additional updates as more verified information comes to light. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.
Police constable charged with homicide over fatal 2024 shooting in Ewarton.
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has charged a constable with homicide and wounding with intent. The charges are in connection with the October 2024 shooting at the Ewarton Sports Complex in St Catherine.
Law enforcement has identified the accused as Constable Orlando Garricks. The authorities charged him on Tuesday following an investigation by the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM).
The shooting occurred on October 13, 2024, during a party at the Ewarton Sports Complex and resulted in the demise of Vivian Francis and the injury of a woman.
INDECOM stated that the victims and the constable were patrons at the event. An altercation allegedly occurred, during which Garricks discharged his firearm.
Garricks claimed he acted in self-defense; however, INDECOM stated that eyewitness accounts gathered during its investigation contradicted his version of the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
After its investigation, INDECOM sent a file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), which decided that Garricks should be charged with homicide and wounding with intent.
Garricks appeared in the St Catherine Parish Court on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. The court offered him bail in the amount of $1 million, with one to three sureties.
The matter will return before the court on Friday, November 13.
INDECOM noted that there are 77 matters arising from its investigations before the courts, 43 of which relate to fatal shooting incidents involving members of the security forces.